car rental

All the majors that we have here, rent cars in Italy. We prefer to use the broker; Auto Europe, based in Maine, for our EU rentals. Othgersd swaer by Gemut, and broker based in Oregon. They both handle all of the major EU firms, including Europecar, and offer excellent servive. We pick-up in one location, and drop off in another. Usually picking up at an airport or train staion can add quite a few $$ to your cost. Go to their websites, and play with pick-up and drop-off locations, type of car, etc. Don't leave home without your GPS, a Michelin map of Italy, your drivers license, and a International Driver's Permit, (available at your local AAA office).

I agree with Steve except that, although I do carry a current IDP, you probably don't need one in Italy. We had rented with several US and European-based car rental companies and have always been just fine. Check with Expedia, but I have also found that sometimes checking with individual rental agencies, the prices can be lower. By all means, if possible, stay away from picking cars up at airports, the there is pretty much always a premium fee for the convenience and public transportation to off-site or smaller town rental agencies is well worth the cost of transportation. Also, check into drop-off fees, and yes, bring your own GPS if you have Europe maps available.

We have always rented from AVIS. Very reliable and if you have a problem they give you another car. We are picking up our in Lamezia Terme next month but dropping off in Rome, negotiated a non drop off fee.

I use AutoEurope for my car rentals. In Italy I think I ended up getting my car from Hertz. And IDP is REQUIRED in Italy. It is unlikely you will be asked to produce it when picking up your car, but if you are stopped by the police or are involved in an accident you will be fined if you don't have one. They are only $15 at AAA.

An IDP most definately is required in Italy . You may get away with it when the dozy attendant at the cire hire place doesn't ask for it but most certainly will not get away without with the police. Read the always erudite Ron in Rome piece (complete with photos and personal experiences) about it.